Pedal To The Metal – Fashion Trend Alert: Metals and Metallics

Foiled Fashion

Metallics may already be popular for the holiday season, especially being a fan favourite for New Year’s outfits. However, shiny, reflective fabrics are about to be a year-round staple, with strong metallic statements seeming to be a trend to look out for in 2023. This is not a shock as there is an expected rise of futuristic, cyber, and sci-fi-inspired styles and aesthetics in the coming year and metallics will undoubtedly be this surge’s poster effect and colour.

From metallic minis to shiny shoes, this trend will reign dominant throughout SS23, and the effect will be seen throughout clothing, shoes and accessories. Popular colours will be as expected; gold, rose gold, silver and bronze, but metallic garments and shoes will be available in many hues allowing you to channel your creativity. Full-on foil metallics are expected to be especially prevalent; I predict silver is the front-runner for this trend. Still, the more wearable approaches, such as sequins, will also be holding their own, as mentioned in the last trend alert (shimmer and shine), making the trend wearable for all.

Right Off The Runway – SS23

Metallics reigned supreme on the SS23 runways. Many designers featured a futuristic palette within their designers. Some designers experimented with different materials to enhance the effect, such as Jil Sanders, who offered a metallic chenille on the runway alongside other metallic pieces. A. Potts showcased foil metallics, and they weren’t the only ones, as the foil approach was adorned by many designers, including Alexander McQueen, Rick Owens and ACNE. Kelsey Randall even featured a pair of metallic cowboy boots, which offered an interesting dynamic and opened the floor to metallic shoes taking some of the centerstage in the coming season. Other brands that featured metallics in their shows include but aren’t limited to Bally, Tom Ford, Proenza Schouler and Tory Burch opting for a gold hue with Bally and TF both doing a noteworthy stunning pink metallic, Theophilio, who went for a painted effect and Alexandre Vauthier. 

It’s Giving Revolved Robot…

Metallics can be intimidating to wear outside of the holiday season; however, the trend has evolved into a wearable perennial staple. There are ways to ease into it so you can go as minimal or maximal as you want. You can opt for metallic statement accessories such as bags and jewellery to wean your way into it, and you may even work your way up to a full metallic suit.

Let’s discuss a few items to help you create some futuristic, metallic looks for the upcoming season. Remember that some of these items may be expensive but are worth the investment as their high-quality nature will last a lifetime. Quality is essential for metallic pieces as low-quality items will make the metallic look cheap as it could start to crack. There are definitely budget-friendly, high-quality pieces available on the market; feel free to use the below items for inspiration on your next shopping trip.